There are plenty of options available for a new-home builders to install fireplace in their living room. You can buy the ones, which you decide best. Today's "old-fashioned" wood burning stoves offer more choices than those of past one.
Manufacturers offer high-energy models, which include insulated fireboxes to keep cold breeze outside and it entraps warm air inside your living room. Such models are available with blower systems that help redirecting the heated air from the chimney out into the room. By nature, the traditional wood-burning fireplaces emit gases and particles that could harm the environment.
Prefer The Right Wood:
Wood fireplaces usually burn for five to eight hours - subject to condition that you have installed the best one. Further, it depends on the wood you use. Regarding the chimney, based on your desire, you can install either a metal or a clay flue type, both are preferable.
The wood burning fireplaces are provided with an ash pit on its floor. Therefore, you can remove the ashes deposited in the pit, using the pattern of the fireplace. However, remember, always use dry and seasoned wood for your fireplace. Woods like hickory, apple, oak, maple or beech are the best.
Maintenance:
It is a good practice to get your wood fireplace examined buy a chimney sweep professional at frequent interval to ensure whether it functions properly or not.
Check the chimney caps also, as it prevents rain, birds, and animals entering inside the chimney. If its found damaged, replace the cap immediately.
Remove the accumulated creosote, as it could cause a dangerous ignition. By using dry and hard wood, you can prevent chimney from creosote. Moreover, dry wood helps fireplaces burn more easily.
Always keep the damper of the fireplace closed, when not in use.
Install your wood or any other fireplace only by the certified professionals.
Above all, always buy the EPA-certified wood burning fireplaces to ensure safety.